Today we’d like to introduce you to Pam Tremble.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My creative journey has been a long and winding one. For more than twenty years, I worked in creative direction, communication, and marketing. I lead teams of designers, webmasters, and videographers to build campaigns and brands for other people’s visions. It was fulfilling work, but over time I realized how much of my own identity had become wrapped up in my job titles. When I stepped away from that world in 2023, I had to figure out who I was without the structure of a corporate role.
That period of reflection became the spark for Tremble Design Studio. I wanted to build something more personal – an independent creative practice that would let me combine design, strategy, and teaching in a way that truly helps entrepreneurs and nonprofits define who they are and communicate that with confidence.
Today, I work as a brand strategist and creative partner for small business owners and mission-driven organizations. My focus is on brand audits, positioning, and visual identity systems that help clients not just look polished, but also feel aligned with their purpose. Over time, my work has expanded to include writing and publishing books on brand building and creative entrepreneurship that are resources designed to help people build intentional, sustainable businesses.
What I love most about this season of my career is the freedom to create work that matters and to walk alongside other business owners as they do the same. Every project is a collaboration rooted in strategy, storytelling, and the belief that thoughtful design can change the trajectory of a business.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road – but I don’t think it’s supposed to be. When I left my corporate career after more than two decades, I thought I’d simply take my skills and start freelancing. What I didn’t expect was how much inner work would come with that decision. So much of my identity had been tied to my title and my team. When I finally stepped away, I realized just how deeply burnout had taken hold after years of constant pressure and chronic stress.
I had forgotten what life was supposed to feel like without the weight of deadlines and expectations. Recovery wasn’t quick. I had to learn how to slow down, rest, and rebuild my energy before I could create anything new. That process taught me to redefine success – not as constant productivity, but as doing meaningful work at a sustainable pace.
The early months were equal parts freedom and fear. I had to rebuild my confidence, learn the business side of entrepreneurship, and quiet the voice that told me I had to have everything figured out. I made plenty of mistakes, such as pricing too low, saying yes to the wrong projects, trying to do everything myself.
But those challenges shaped the business I have today. Building Tremble Design Studio became part of my recovery. It’s an intentional effort to create a business that honors creativity, balance, and purpose, not just output. Each detour has taught me to trust my instincts, build systems that support my creativity, and focus on work that aligns with my values. The journey has been anything but easy, but it’s led me to a life and business that feel authentic, grounded, and sustainable.
As you know, we’re big fans of Tremble Design Studio. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Tremble Design Studio is where strategy and design come together to help small businesses tell their story with confidence. I work as a creative partner to entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and professional service providers who want their brand and visuals to reflect their expertise and connect with the right audience.
Design touches every corner of a business – your logo, brochures, presentations, reports, and social graphics all contribute to how people perceive you. At Tremble Design Studio, I help clients bring consistency and clarity to every one of those touchpoints. Whether it’s developing a brand strategy, refining a logo system, or designing a polished annual report, my goal is always the same: to make your business look as professional and intentional as it truly is.
What sets my studio apart is the partnership approach. Clients don’t just receive deliverables – they gain a creative ally who understands their goals and helps them grow strategically. When your visuals connect with your audience, your brand earns trust, builds stronger relationships, and creates measurable growth. That’s the impact I strive for in every project.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I’ve never really had a formal mentor—I’ve always been more of a lone wolf when it comes to learning. My “mentors” have been the creative leaders I’ve followed from afar, like Chris Do and Aaron Draplin in the design and agency space, or female powerhouses like Paula Scher and Debbie Millman. I learn best by reading books, watching interviews, and studying how others approach their craft and business.
Lately, though, I’ve been intentional about building more local connections. I joined the Women in Leadership chapter here in my community and it’s been such a rewarding experience. We meet twice a month to learn from one another and share encouragement. As an introvert, networking has never come naturally, but I’ve learned that stepping outside my comfort zone is essential for growth.
I’d rather have a handful of meaningful relationships than dozens of surface-level acquaintances. That mindset carries over into my client work—many of my projects evolve into genuine friendships and long-term collaborations. Since leaving my corporate job, I’ve realized those casual hallway conversations don’t happen anymore, so I make a point to get out of my home office at least once a week to connect with people face-to-face.
My advice to anyone seeking mentorship or community is to start where you are. Follow people who inspire you, keep learning, and be generous in sharing what you know. The right relationships will naturally grow from there.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.trembledesign.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trembledesignstudio
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TrembleDesign
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/trembledesign
